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Friday 23 April 2021
A few more Google alternativesBrad here. It seems like everyone is getting on the Googlexit (Gexit? Gooxit?) bandwagon. Joining the club, to my astonishment, is Popular Science, with an article entitled "Ditch Google for good with these apps and gadgets" (h/t Instapundit). My brief comments about their recommendations:
Browser: This is the first I've heard about Vivaldi. It's available for Linux, so I might check it out. (Though I already have six non-Chrome web browsers installed on my desktop.) Update: if this review is reasonably accurate -- "Opera meets Chrome" -- I definitely want to try Vivaldi.
Search: DuckDuckGo. I concur.
Webmail: ProtonMail. I concur, but note that there are many other good options.
Photo Storage: They suggest Dropbox. I'm not a fan of cloud storage except as a backup, so I have no recommendation here.
Maps: This is the first I've heard of Here WeGo. I'm looking forward to trying it out.
Calendar: I can't agree with their choice of the awful Microsoft Outlook. Try something else instead.
Online Docs: I've seen Zoho recommended before. Again, I abjure working in the cloud; best to keep your tools and your docs on your own computer.
Smart Speakers: Just say no, to Google Nest and Amazon Echo. They all snoop on you.
Smartphone: Both iOS and Android are problematic. I don't know what I'll do when my venerable Blackberry Z10 gives up the ghost.
Browser: This is the first I've heard about Vivaldi. It's available for Linux, so I might check it out. (Though I already have six non-Chrome web browsers installed on my desktop.) Update: if this review is reasonably accurate -- "Opera meets Chrome" -- I definitely want to try Vivaldi.
Search: DuckDuckGo. I concur.
Webmail: ProtonMail. I concur, but note that there are many other good options.
Photo Storage: They suggest Dropbox. I'm not a fan of cloud storage except as a backup, so I have no recommendation here.
Maps: This is the first I've heard of Here WeGo. I'm looking forward to trying it out.
Calendar: I can't agree with their choice of the awful Microsoft Outlook. Try something else instead.
Online Docs: I've seen Zoho recommended before. Again, I abjure working in the cloud; best to keep your tools and your docs on your own computer.
Smart Speakers: Just say no, to Google Nest and Amazon Echo. They all snoop on you.
Smartphone: Both iOS and Android are problematic. I don't know what I'll do when my venerable Blackberry Z10 gives up the ghost.
Tuesday 20 April 2021
Monday 19 April 2021
Sunday 18 April 2021
News and commentary round up for April 18From the Sun: First part-human, part-monkey embryo created by scientists sparks outcry. From the Guardian: Human cells grown in monkey embryos reignite ethics debate. Scientists confirm they have produced ‘chimera’ embryos from long-tailed macaques and humans. [Ed: I have such mixed feelings that I don't know what to express.]
From the Organic Prepper: Microchips Are the “Brains” of Every Electronic Device in the World and They’re Becoming Scarce. [Ed: buy now, if you foresee a need, because goods are more valuable than money right now.]
From the Asia Times: Obituary for America’s war in Afghanistan. An inquiry is needed in the US into how a limited mission by two dozen special forces became a 19-year war. [Ed: a must read.]
From Zero Hedge: Democrats Brace For 'Defund The Police' Movement To Damage Party Into Midterms
The Media. From Moonbattery: CBS Edits Out Gun of Black Youth Shot by Police. [Ed: it is as though they are trying to create riots.] From the Gateway Pundit: CBS News Edits Police Bodycam Footage, Right and Left Edges Trimmed Away to Omit Portion of Video Where 13 yr old Adam Toledo is Seen Holding Firearm. From Caitlin Johnstone: The CIA Used To Infiltrate The Media... Now The CIA Is The Media. From Matt Taibbi: Rachel Maddow is Bill O’Reilly. From Glenn Greenwald: Journalists, Learning They Spread a CIA Fraud About Russia, Instantly Embrace a New One. [Ed: Taibbi and Greenwald are must reads and proof that liberals/the left can be fair and accurate.]
From RT: US laments ‘unwanted escalation’ & reserves right to retaliate after Russia’s tit-for-tat response to sanctions. [Ed: perhaps Biden should not have started the sanctions game then?]
From Reason: Public Health Experts Have Lost the Benefit of the Doubt. The decision by the CDC and FDA to pause the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was a disastrous misstep.
From Unlimited Hangout: The Military Origins Of Facebook, Part 1. Facebook’s growing role in the ever-expanding surveillance and “pre-crime” apparatus of the national security state demands new scrutiny of the company’s origins...
The Chauvin Trial. From Politico: Our reporters break down key moments in the Chauvin trial. Whatever the outcome, it will be historic. [Ed: I hear that the prosecution did a rather poor job. Who knows?] From Legal Insurrection: Chauvin Trial Day 14 Wrap-Up: Mistrial Narrowly Avoided, Closing Arguments Monday. Defense offered no practicable opportunity to contest Dr. Tobin’s rebuttal testimony.
From Zero Hedge: "I Shoot a Bunch of 3D Printed Guns - Do My Hands Survive?"
From the Organic Prepper: Microchips Are the “Brains” of Every Electronic Device in the World and They’re Becoming Scarce. [Ed: buy now, if you foresee a need, because goods are more valuable than money right now.]
From the Asia Times: Obituary for America’s war in Afghanistan. An inquiry is needed in the US into how a limited mission by two dozen special forces became a 19-year war. [Ed: a must read.]
From Zero Hedge: Democrats Brace For 'Defund The Police' Movement To Damage Party Into Midterms
The Media. From Moonbattery: CBS Edits Out Gun of Black Youth Shot by Police. [Ed: it is as though they are trying to create riots.] From the Gateway Pundit: CBS News Edits Police Bodycam Footage, Right and Left Edges Trimmed Away to Omit Portion of Video Where 13 yr old Adam Toledo is Seen Holding Firearm. From Caitlin Johnstone: The CIA Used To Infiltrate The Media... Now The CIA Is The Media. From Matt Taibbi: Rachel Maddow is Bill O’Reilly. From Glenn Greenwald: Journalists, Learning They Spread a CIA Fraud About Russia, Instantly Embrace a New One. [Ed: Taibbi and Greenwald are must reads and proof that liberals/the left can be fair and accurate.]
From RT: US laments ‘unwanted escalation’ & reserves right to retaliate after Russia’s tit-for-tat response to sanctions. [Ed: perhaps Biden should not have started the sanctions game then?]
From Reason: Public Health Experts Have Lost the Benefit of the Doubt. The decision by the CDC and FDA to pause the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was a disastrous misstep.
From Unlimited Hangout: The Military Origins Of Facebook, Part 1. Facebook’s growing role in the ever-expanding surveillance and “pre-crime” apparatus of the national security state demands new scrutiny of the company’s origins...
The Chauvin Trial. From Politico: Our reporters break down key moments in the Chauvin trial. Whatever the outcome, it will be historic. [Ed: I hear that the prosecution did a rather poor job. Who knows?] From Legal Insurrection: Chauvin Trial Day 14 Wrap-Up: Mistrial Narrowly Avoided, Closing Arguments Monday. Defense offered no practicable opportunity to contest Dr. Tobin’s rebuttal testimony.
From Zero Hedge: "I Shoot a Bunch of 3D Printed Guns - Do My Hands Survive?"
Saturday 17 April 2021
News and commentary round up for April 17From Newser: Indianapolis Shooter ID'd as Man in His 20s. But police don't speculate about motive in attack that left 8 victims dead [Ed: a round-up of stories.] From the IndyStar: 'Act of violence' took mere minutes: How the FedEx mass shooting unfolded in Indianapolis
From Reason: Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction. For sci fi fans who enjoy getting lost in internet rabbit holes. [Ed: delightful.]
From the Week: Israel is testing Biden. [Ed: I am sure Israel is not the only one.]
From Reuters: Castro confirms he is passing Cuban Communist Party leadership to new generation. [Ed: my father-in-law, who emigrated from Cuba, hated Fidel with a fiery passion. Of course, The Castro referred to in this article is Raul, Fidel's brother.]
From the Gatestone Institute: Western Fashion Brands Sued for Using Forced Labor in China. [Ed: I will be following this one.]
High Finance. From Zero Hedge: 76% Rise In Stocks Since The March Low Is The 3rd Largest Jump In 100 Years... What Happens Next. From CNBC: There’s a single New Jersey deli doing $35,000 in sales valued at $100 million in the stock [Ed: a must read. Shows the craziness of the current stock market. No kidding. It is insane.]
From FOX News: Maxine Waters snaps at Jim Jordan as COVID hearing with Fauci erupts into shouting match: ‘Shut your mouth’ [Ed: go Jordan. I'm sure the elites want us all to shut up.] Tensions ran high when Rep. Jim Jordan pressed Dr. Anthony Fauci on when restrictions will be lifted
From Glenn Greenwald: Journalists, Learning They Spread a CIA Fraud About Russia, Instantly Embrace a New One. The most significant Trump-era alliance is between corporate outlets and security state agencies, whose evidence-free claims they unquestioningly disseminate.
The Battle Over Guns. From Politico: Biden renews calls for gun reform after Indianapolis shooting. From the Texas Tribune: Texas House approves bill that would allow people to carry a gun without a license. [Ed; the ironic effect of anti-gun rhetoric may be to strengthen gun rights because the states are rushing to act.]
From Politico: Reparations bill approved out of committee in historic vote. Now comes the hard part: Getting buy-in from enough lawmakers.[Ed: I hope it is the "insuperable part."]
Crypto. From Market Watch: Bitcoin falls as Turkey bans cryptocurrency payments [Ed: it is going to bounce a bit, whatever.]
From the Daily Caller: Project Veritas’ James O’Keefe Announces He’s Suing Twitter After Being Banned
Disinformation Surrounds Us. From Task & Purpose: Russian bounties on US troops are probably BS, according to the Biden administration. From the Federalist: Surprise! The ‘Russian Bounty’ Story Hyped Up By Corrupt Media To Hurt Trump Turned Out To Be Fake News. [Ed: and now you know why I include "if true" in so many comments I make on this newsfeed.] From :the Most Important News Slowly But Surely, The Truth Is Coming Out
From Politico: Democrats hand their foes a weapon as they weigh a filibuster loophole. If Schumer doesn't use his new arrow, the next majority leader could make it happen thanks to his reconnaissance. [Ed: damn fools. Reid handed the filibuster to the GOP. They are recklessly handing other tools over in a short short-sighted manner.]
From the Organic Prepper: Food Storage: The Prepper’s Three Layer Plan.
Packing SCOTUS. From the Daily Wire: Liberal Law Professor Jonathan Turley Explains The Dangers Of Pursing A Supreme Court That Fits The ‘Age of Rage’. [Ed: you cannot go wrong with Turley. A magnificent voice of reason.]
From Spiked Online: Woke capitalism is a menace to democracy. Big businesses are aggressively interfering in politics – and liberals are egging them on.
From the Epoch Times: Google Found Guilty Of Misleading Australian Customers On Data Collection. [Ed: the Aussies lead the way. Down a good path or not...who knows at this point?]
Myanmar: From Foreign Affairs: The Looming Catastrophe in Myanmar. From Council on Foreign Relations: ASEAN’s Myanmar Crisis. [Ed: I don't want Myanmar to fall out of sight.]
From the Organic Prepper: Thirdworldization: The Slow Burning SHTF Of America [Ed: recommended.]
From Reason: Historical Dictionary of Science Fiction. For sci fi fans who enjoy getting lost in internet rabbit holes. [Ed: delightful.]
From the Week: Israel is testing Biden. [Ed: I am sure Israel is not the only one.]
From Reuters: Castro confirms he is passing Cuban Communist Party leadership to new generation. [Ed: my father-in-law, who emigrated from Cuba, hated Fidel with a fiery passion. Of course, The Castro referred to in this article is Raul, Fidel's brother.]
From the Gatestone Institute: Western Fashion Brands Sued for Using Forced Labor in China. [Ed: I will be following this one.]
High Finance. From Zero Hedge: 76% Rise In Stocks Since The March Low Is The 3rd Largest Jump In 100 Years... What Happens Next. From CNBC: There’s a single New Jersey deli doing $35,000 in sales valued at $100 million in the stock [Ed: a must read. Shows the craziness of the current stock market. No kidding. It is insane.]
From FOX News: Maxine Waters snaps at Jim Jordan as COVID hearing with Fauci erupts into shouting match: ‘Shut your mouth’ [Ed: go Jordan. I'm sure the elites want us all to shut up.] Tensions ran high when Rep. Jim Jordan pressed Dr. Anthony Fauci on when restrictions will be lifted
From Glenn Greenwald: Journalists, Learning They Spread a CIA Fraud About Russia, Instantly Embrace a New One. The most significant Trump-era alliance is between corporate outlets and security state agencies, whose evidence-free claims they unquestioningly disseminate.
The Battle Over Guns. From Politico: Biden renews calls for gun reform after Indianapolis shooting. From the Texas Tribune: Texas House approves bill that would allow people to carry a gun without a license. [Ed; the ironic effect of anti-gun rhetoric may be to strengthen gun rights because the states are rushing to act.]
From Politico: Reparations bill approved out of committee in historic vote. Now comes the hard part: Getting buy-in from enough lawmakers.[Ed: I hope it is the "insuperable part."]
Crypto. From Market Watch: Bitcoin falls as Turkey bans cryptocurrency payments [Ed: it is going to bounce a bit, whatever.]
From the Daily Caller: Project Veritas’ James O’Keefe Announces He’s Suing Twitter After Being Banned
Disinformation Surrounds Us. From Task & Purpose: Russian bounties on US troops are probably BS, according to the Biden administration. From the Federalist: Surprise! The ‘Russian Bounty’ Story Hyped Up By Corrupt Media To Hurt Trump Turned Out To Be Fake News. [Ed: and now you know why I include "if true" in so many comments I make on this newsfeed.] From :the Most Important News Slowly But Surely, The Truth Is Coming Out
From Politico: Democrats hand their foes a weapon as they weigh a filibuster loophole. If Schumer doesn't use his new arrow, the next majority leader could make it happen thanks to his reconnaissance. [Ed: damn fools. Reid handed the filibuster to the GOP. They are recklessly handing other tools over in a short short-sighted manner.]
From the Organic Prepper: Food Storage: The Prepper’s Three Layer Plan.
Packing SCOTUS. From the Daily Wire: Liberal Law Professor Jonathan Turley Explains The Dangers Of Pursing A Supreme Court That Fits The ‘Age of Rage’. [Ed: you cannot go wrong with Turley. A magnificent voice of reason.]
From Spiked Online: Woke capitalism is a menace to democracy. Big businesses are aggressively interfering in politics – and liberals are egging them on.
From the Epoch Times: Google Found Guilty Of Misleading Australian Customers On Data Collection. [Ed: the Aussies lead the way. Down a good path or not...who knows at this point?]
Myanmar: From Foreign Affairs: The Looming Catastrophe in Myanmar. From Council on Foreign Relations: ASEAN’s Myanmar Crisis. [Ed: I don't want Myanmar to fall out of sight.]
From the Organic Prepper: Thirdworldization: The Slow Burning SHTF Of America [Ed: recommended.]
Friday 16 April 2021
VAWA Balkanizes Rights, Cynically Erasing Male IndiansMy latest article has appeared at Mises Wire: VAWA Balkanizes Rights, Cynically Erasing Male Indians. It highlights the importance of universalizing rights--as opposed to balkanizing them--to human freedom. Enjoy!
News and commentary round up for April 16From NBC: There Are 9 Supreme Court Justices. New Bill Would Make It 13. Observers note legislation set to be introduced by Dems is unlikely to pass anytime soon, however. [Ed: Dems are openly calling the current court "illegitimate" and politically manipulated. I think this move, plus the President's commission on changing the court's structure, are meant to pressure the current SCOTUS...at least, a partial motivation.]
From the Indianapolis Star: Multiple people shot at FedEx facility near the airport, IMPD says. [Ed: at the time of this posting, the situation is not clear but this link, this news item will be updated as facts emerge.]
From the American Institute for Economic Research: Vaccine Passports Versus Freedom Itself [Ed: recommended.]
On CNN. From Politico: Gaetz Going on Ad Blitz Against CNN. As new details continue to emerge in growing scandal. [Ed: at this point, I have no reason to believe the "details" are true. They may be. But UFOs may exist, too. I'll wait for real evidence.] From Project Veritas: PART 2: CNN Director Charlie Chester Reveals How Network Practices ‘Manipulation’ to ‘Change the World’: ‘There’s an Art to Manipulation… Inflection, Saying Things Twice … It’s Always Like Leading Them in a Direction Before They Even Open Their Mouths’. [Ed: this is #2 recording in the #exposeCNN series. I expect #3 will be early next week.]
From Sunny Skyz: Restaurant Owner Offers Burglar A Job Instead Of Pressing Charges
From the Daily Caller: BLM Threatens Legal Action Against One Of Their Own Activists After Call For Probe Into Finances. ...“black firms and black accountants” should conduct an audit on BLM Global Network Foundation to “find out where the money is going.” "...following revelations concerning co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors’ property spending binge, and further money raking activities." AS A REMINDER...From the New York Post: Inside BLM co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors’ million-dollar real estate buying binge. [Ed: hat tip to Brad who comments, Per Twitchy, this news article has been banned by Facebook -- you can't share a link to it, even in a private message. So spread the link that Facebook wants suppressed!]
The Cold War is On. From AP: US Imposes Sanctions on Russia Over Hacking. Biden administration takes first retaliatory step over cyber attacks [Ed: I have no reason to believe the Russian gov. was behind the recent attack.] From Zero Hedge: Biden Targets Russian Sovereign Debt, Expels 10 Diplomats, In Sweeping Sanctions Action. [Ed: Russia threatens swift retaliation.]
From Politico: Inside Nancy Pelosi’s War With AOC and the Squad.
From the Guardian: Former Minnesota police officer Kim Potter charged with manslaughter of black motorist Daunte Wright [Ed: second-degree manslaughter, which has a potential sentence of ten years and a $20,000 fine.] From Law and Crime: Documents Reveal Where Kim Potter Kept Her Gun and Her Taser When She Shot and Killed Daunte Wright.
From Axios: Derek Chauvin will not testify at trial, invoking Fifth Amendment. [Ed: this speeds things along.]
Everyday Finances. From Zero Hedge: "The Shortage Will Continue": Taiwan Semi Warns Chip Shortage Could Extend Into 2022. Brace for higher prices.
The Prospects for War. From Zero Hedge: US Cancels Black Sea Deployment Of 2 Warships After Biden-Putin Call. Risk of major military action by Russia fades. [Ed: Putin must love that Biden is the one approaching him for phone calls and in-person meetings.] From Juan Cole: What will be the Mideast Crises facing Biden in the Coming Year? US Intelligence Threat Assessment. From Counterpunch: Israel Rejects ICC Investigation: What Are the Possible Future Scenarios?
From the New Atlas: Dutch citizens are using a "doorbell" to help fish get past barrier [Ed: out of the box thinking!]
Afghanistan. From CNN: Biden announces troops will leave Afghanistan by September 11: 'It's time to end America's longest war'. [Ed: Ill be glad to see the US withdrawal but this is tremendously hyprocitical. Biden broke the negotiated agreement to leave on May 1st for no other reason than the salutary optics of leaving on the anniversary of 9/11.] From antiwar: Taliban Promises ‘Nightmare’ For US Troops in Final Months of Afghanistan War. [Ed: well, they were betrayed by the broken May 1st agreement.] From the Babylon Bee: US Criticized For Withdrawing Troops From Afghanistan While Just 50 Years From Victory
From the New York Post: Canadian lawmaker caught nude during virtual legislative meeting. [Ed: just for a laugh.]
From the Hill: Indirect talks with Iran over nuclear deal to resume Thursday. [Ed: yesterday, not next week.]
Social Media. From Zero Hedge: Republicans Unveil New Plan To Rein In Big Tech. From the New York Post: My Pillow boss Mike Lindell’s social media site has a new name. [Ed: "Frank." It is due to go live on Aptil 16, today.] From the Verge: MyPillow CEO’s free speech social network will ban posts that take the Lord’s name in vain. [Ed: I hope this is not true, but I suspect it is.]
From the Babylon Bee: Amazon Creates Online Looting App To Allow The Timid To Loot From Home AND 7 Ways The World Would Be Better Without Police. [Ed: #1 is that there would be more doughnuts for the rest of us. And, yes, satire.]
From Asia Times: Japanese AI robots and the American union’s last hurrah. Kyoto Robotics is exporting AI-powered robot control systems built to completely replace manual labor in warehouses and factories. [Ed: the future frowns on unions.]
The Ukraine. From the Sun: Putin is preparing to deploy NUCLEAR WEAPONS to Crimea in terrifying show of force, Ukraine minister claims. [Ed: grain of salt time. The Ukraine has a vested interest in stoking global fears of Russia.But this does indicate an accelerating tension.] From the BBC: Why Russia may not be planning the invasion that Ukraine fears.
From the Indianapolis Star: Multiple people shot at FedEx facility near the airport, IMPD says. [Ed: at the time of this posting, the situation is not clear but this link, this news item will be updated as facts emerge.]
From the American Institute for Economic Research: Vaccine Passports Versus Freedom Itself [Ed: recommended.]
On CNN. From Politico: Gaetz Going on Ad Blitz Against CNN. As new details continue to emerge in growing scandal. [Ed: at this point, I have no reason to believe the "details" are true. They may be. But UFOs may exist, too. I'll wait for real evidence.] From Project Veritas: PART 2: CNN Director Charlie Chester Reveals How Network Practices ‘Manipulation’ to ‘Change the World’: ‘There’s an Art to Manipulation… Inflection, Saying Things Twice … It’s Always Like Leading Them in a Direction Before They Even Open Their Mouths’. [Ed: this is #2 recording in the #exposeCNN series. I expect #3 will be early next week.]
From Sunny Skyz: Restaurant Owner Offers Burglar A Job Instead Of Pressing Charges
From the Daily Caller: BLM Threatens Legal Action Against One Of Their Own Activists After Call For Probe Into Finances. ...“black firms and black accountants” should conduct an audit on BLM Global Network Foundation to “find out where the money is going.” "...following revelations concerning co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors’ property spending binge, and further money raking activities." AS A REMINDER...From the New York Post: Inside BLM co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors’ million-dollar real estate buying binge. [Ed: hat tip to Brad who comments, Per Twitchy, this news article has been banned by Facebook -- you can't share a link to it, even in a private message. So spread the link that Facebook wants suppressed!]
The Cold War is On. From AP: US Imposes Sanctions on Russia Over Hacking. Biden administration takes first retaliatory step over cyber attacks [Ed: I have no reason to believe the Russian gov. was behind the recent attack.] From Zero Hedge: Biden Targets Russian Sovereign Debt, Expels 10 Diplomats, In Sweeping Sanctions Action. [Ed: Russia threatens swift retaliation.]
From Politico: Inside Nancy Pelosi’s War With AOC and the Squad.
From the Guardian: Former Minnesota police officer Kim Potter charged with manslaughter of black motorist Daunte Wright [Ed: second-degree manslaughter, which has a potential sentence of ten years and a $20,000 fine.] From Law and Crime: Documents Reveal Where Kim Potter Kept Her Gun and Her Taser When She Shot and Killed Daunte Wright.
From Axios: Derek Chauvin will not testify at trial, invoking Fifth Amendment. [Ed: this speeds things along.]
Everyday Finances. From Zero Hedge: "The Shortage Will Continue": Taiwan Semi Warns Chip Shortage Could Extend Into 2022. Brace for higher prices.
The Prospects for War. From Zero Hedge: US Cancels Black Sea Deployment Of 2 Warships After Biden-Putin Call. Risk of major military action by Russia fades. [Ed: Putin must love that Biden is the one approaching him for phone calls and in-person meetings.] From Juan Cole: What will be the Mideast Crises facing Biden in the Coming Year? US Intelligence Threat Assessment. From Counterpunch: Israel Rejects ICC Investigation: What Are the Possible Future Scenarios?
From the New Atlas: Dutch citizens are using a "doorbell" to help fish get past barrier [Ed: out of the box thinking!]
Afghanistan. From CNN: Biden announces troops will leave Afghanistan by September 11: 'It's time to end America's longest war'. [Ed: Ill be glad to see the US withdrawal but this is tremendously hyprocitical. Biden broke the negotiated agreement to leave on May 1st for no other reason than the salutary optics of leaving on the anniversary of 9/11.] From antiwar: Taliban Promises ‘Nightmare’ For US Troops in Final Months of Afghanistan War. [Ed: well, they were betrayed by the broken May 1st agreement.] From the Babylon Bee: US Criticized For Withdrawing Troops From Afghanistan While Just 50 Years From Victory
From the New York Post: Canadian lawmaker caught nude during virtual legislative meeting. [Ed: just for a laugh.]
From the Hill: Indirect talks with Iran over nuclear deal to resume Thursday. [Ed: yesterday, not next week.]
Social Media. From Zero Hedge: Republicans Unveil New Plan To Rein In Big Tech. From the New York Post: My Pillow boss Mike Lindell’s social media site has a new name. [Ed: "Frank." It is due to go live on Aptil 16, today.] From the Verge: MyPillow CEO’s free speech social network will ban posts that take the Lord’s name in vain. [Ed: I hope this is not true, but I suspect it is.]
From the Babylon Bee: Amazon Creates Online Looting App To Allow The Timid To Loot From Home AND 7 Ways The World Would Be Better Without Police. [Ed: #1 is that there would be more doughnuts for the rest of us. And, yes, satire.]
From Asia Times: Japanese AI robots and the American union’s last hurrah. Kyoto Robotics is exporting AI-powered robot control systems built to completely replace manual labor in warehouses and factories. [Ed: the future frowns on unions.]
The Ukraine. From the Sun: Putin is preparing to deploy NUCLEAR WEAPONS to Crimea in terrifying show of force, Ukraine minister claims. [Ed: grain of salt time. The Ukraine has a vested interest in stoking global fears of Russia.But this does indicate an accelerating tension.] From the BBC: Why Russia may not be planning the invasion that Ukraine fears.
Thursday 15 April 2021
News and commentary round up for April 15From the Hill: Biden to address Congress on April 28.
From NPR: New Report on Capitol Riot Is 'Devastating'. Watchdog report finds Capitol Police were told not to use most powerful crowd-control tools
Everyday Finance. From Zero Hedge: Texas Faces New Power Crisis: Prices Soar 10,000% As ERCOT Urges Power Conservation Amid Grid 'Emergency'. [Ed: situations like this, plus 'green' policies, will make turning on the lights more expensive.] AND Shipping Container Rates Expected To Remain Elevated Through Year. [Ed: the cost will be passed on to consumers.] From CNBC: Consumer prices rise more than expected, pushed by 9.1% jump in gasoline. [Ed: I see this every week in the grocery store.]
From the AP: Iran president calls 60% enrichment an answer to ‘evilness’ [Ed: with Iran, it is always difficult to tell what is real outrage and intent from what is a negotiating chip.]
From Aeon: Brain wifi. Instead of a code encrypted in the wiring of our neurons, could consciousness reside in the brain’s electromagnetic field? [Ed: this question has long intrigued me.]
From Commonweal Magazine: Last Men and Women. Are some virtues casualties of progress? [Ed: a must read.]
From Reuters: Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong jailed for four months for 2019 protest. [Ed: I hope this fine young man emerges from jail alive and well.]
All Things Covid. From the Daily Caller: Scientists Issue Open Letter Claiming Incorrect And Contradictory Details In WHO Origins Report Used To Downplay Lab Leak Theory. [Ed: let the backlash begin across the board.] From Unherd: The Covid dissidents taking on China. Beijing's science stooges are being unmasked by an international team of online sleuths From Breitbart: UK Faces ‘Ticking Time Bomb’ of Missed Cancer Cases, Study Claims.
From the Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Hearing: Pelosi/Schiff Argue Congress Can Secretly Subpoena Phone Records of Citizens. [Ed: I applaud the Judicial Watch's pursuit of this extremely important case.]
From the Boston Herald: This is the week Biden’s infrastructure bill could fall apart. [Ed: I hope it does...fervently hope.]
High Finance. From the Financial Times: Taiwan dollar drops with US set to apply currency manipulator tag. Biden administration expected to add country to name-and-shame list despite strengthening ties. [Ed: what the heck? Taiwan's currency is less manipulated than America's. Being 'named' often leads to sanctions for which Taiwan says it would cease supplying chips to the U.S.]
From the Most Important News: We Are Now Entering Full-Blown Tyranny In The Western World. If we accept what they are doing to us now, they are just going to keep pushing the envelope...
From Naked Capitalism: 7 Reasons Why A Vaccine Passport Should Give Us Pause For Thought.
The World Moves Closer to War. From antiwar: Russia Deploys Two Armies, Three Airborne Units to Counter Threat From 40,000 NATO Troops on Its Border AND Top US/NATO Commander Prepared to Use ‘Full Weight of the Transatlantic Alliance’ Against Russia and China
From TK News: Due Process Is Good, He Said Controversially. Gaetz, Greenwald, and accusations in the Twitter age.
From Reuters: Israel's Bennett says he would back new Netanyahu-led government. [Ed: Netanyahu has his coalition thru the support of the right-to-far-right Ramina Party. Terms are being negotiated now.] From Middle East Eye: Israeli press review: Israel 'playing with fire' in escalation with Iran. Meanwhile, a petition calls for withdrawal of Netanyahu’s nomination to form a government, and Gantz calls for investigation into leaks linked to explosion at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility
From Mish Talk: Nancy Pelosi's Husband Uses Call Options To Buy Microsoft Ahead Of Big Govt Contract]Nancy Pelosi's Husband Uses Call Options To Buy Microsoft Ahead Of Big Govt Contract
From Oregon Live: Idaho lawmakers hear pitch to absorb three-fourths of Oregon. [Ed: some areas of Oregon do not want to live under the progressive policies of the state gov.]
The Media. From the Washington Times: 'We got Trump out': CNN staffer credits network with booting Trump in Project Veritas sting. From Project Veritas: PART 1: CNN Director ADMITS Network Engaged in ‘Propaganda’ to Remove Trump from Presidency … ‘Our Focus Was to Get Trump Out of Office’ … ‘I Came to CNN Because I Wanted to Be a Part of That’ [Ed: a must read.]
From TK News: Interview: Noam Chomsky. On Biden vs. Trump, his new book, and why manufacturing consent "is much easier now." [Ed: interviewed by Matt Taibbi.]
From CNN: The world's most powerful passports for 2021. [Ed: Henley's yearly ranking.]
The J&J Vaccine Fiasco. From ABC: Governors question Biden decision on J&J, warn of potential hit to vaccine confidence. From Vice: The J&J Vaccine Is Safer Than the Birth Control Millions of Women Take Every Day.
From NPR: New Report on Capitol Riot Is 'Devastating'. Watchdog report finds Capitol Police were told not to use most powerful crowd-control tools
Everyday Finance. From Zero Hedge: Texas Faces New Power Crisis: Prices Soar 10,000% As ERCOT Urges Power Conservation Amid Grid 'Emergency'. [Ed: situations like this, plus 'green' policies, will make turning on the lights more expensive.] AND Shipping Container Rates Expected To Remain Elevated Through Year. [Ed: the cost will be passed on to consumers.] From CNBC: Consumer prices rise more than expected, pushed by 9.1% jump in gasoline. [Ed: I see this every week in the grocery store.]
From the AP: Iran president calls 60% enrichment an answer to ‘evilness’ [Ed: with Iran, it is always difficult to tell what is real outrage and intent from what is a negotiating chip.]
From Aeon: Brain wifi. Instead of a code encrypted in the wiring of our neurons, could consciousness reside in the brain’s electromagnetic field? [Ed: this question has long intrigued me.]
From Commonweal Magazine: Last Men and Women. Are some virtues casualties of progress? [Ed: a must read.]
From Reuters: Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong jailed for four months for 2019 protest. [Ed: I hope this fine young man emerges from jail alive and well.]
All Things Covid. From the Daily Caller: Scientists Issue Open Letter Claiming Incorrect And Contradictory Details In WHO Origins Report Used To Downplay Lab Leak Theory. [Ed: let the backlash begin across the board.] From Unherd: The Covid dissidents taking on China. Beijing's science stooges are being unmasked by an international team of online sleuths From Breitbart: UK Faces ‘Ticking Time Bomb’ of Missed Cancer Cases, Study Claims.
From the Judicial Watch: Appeals Court Hearing: Pelosi/Schiff Argue Congress Can Secretly Subpoena Phone Records of Citizens. [Ed: I applaud the Judicial Watch's pursuit of this extremely important case.]
From the Boston Herald: This is the week Biden’s infrastructure bill could fall apart. [Ed: I hope it does...fervently hope.]
High Finance. From the Financial Times: Taiwan dollar drops with US set to apply currency manipulator tag. Biden administration expected to add country to name-and-shame list despite strengthening ties. [Ed: what the heck? Taiwan's currency is less manipulated than America's. Being 'named' often leads to sanctions for which Taiwan says it would cease supplying chips to the U.S.]
From the Most Important News: We Are Now Entering Full-Blown Tyranny In The Western World. If we accept what they are doing to us now, they are just going to keep pushing the envelope...
From Naked Capitalism: 7 Reasons Why A Vaccine Passport Should Give Us Pause For Thought.
The World Moves Closer to War. From antiwar: Russia Deploys Two Armies, Three Airborne Units to Counter Threat From 40,000 NATO Troops on Its Border AND Top US/NATO Commander Prepared to Use ‘Full Weight of the Transatlantic Alliance’ Against Russia and China
From TK News: Due Process Is Good, He Said Controversially. Gaetz, Greenwald, and accusations in the Twitter age.
From Reuters: Israel's Bennett says he would back new Netanyahu-led government. [Ed: Netanyahu has his coalition thru the support of the right-to-far-right Ramina Party. Terms are being negotiated now.] From Middle East Eye: Israeli press review: Israel 'playing with fire' in escalation with Iran. Meanwhile, a petition calls for withdrawal of Netanyahu’s nomination to form a government, and Gantz calls for investigation into leaks linked to explosion at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility
From Mish Talk: Nancy Pelosi's Husband Uses Call Options To Buy Microsoft Ahead Of Big Govt Contract]Nancy Pelosi's Husband Uses Call Options To Buy Microsoft Ahead Of Big Govt Contract
From Oregon Live: Idaho lawmakers hear pitch to absorb three-fourths of Oregon. [Ed: some areas of Oregon do not want to live under the progressive policies of the state gov.]
The Media. From the Washington Times: 'We got Trump out': CNN staffer credits network with booting Trump in Project Veritas sting. From Project Veritas: PART 1: CNN Director ADMITS Network Engaged in ‘Propaganda’ to Remove Trump from Presidency … ‘Our Focus Was to Get Trump Out of Office’ … ‘I Came to CNN Because I Wanted to Be a Part of That’ [Ed: a must read.]
From TK News: Interview: Noam Chomsky. On Biden vs. Trump, his new book, and why manufacturing consent "is much easier now." [Ed: interviewed by Matt Taibbi.]
From CNN: The world's most powerful passports for 2021. [Ed: Henley's yearly ranking.]
The J&J Vaccine Fiasco. From ABC: Governors question Biden decision on J&J, warn of potential hit to vaccine confidence. From Vice: The J&J Vaccine Is Safer Than the Birth Control Millions of Women Take Every Day.
Wednesday 14 April 2021
It always was...Government always was the enemy of individuals who are collectively known as 'the people'. But now the mask has fallen and the once hidden face is openly snarling rather than offering platitudes. If there is a bright light in today's political darkness, it is that many more people are realizing this reality. The danger: people will believe the problem is this particular government and elect a savior, like Trump, to provide a "good" government.
News and commentary round up for April 14From Minnesota CBS: For Third Night After Daunte Wright’s Killing, Protesters And Law Enforcement Clash Outside Brooklyn Center Police HQ
From Electroverse: La Soufrière Update: Volcanic Ash Reaches 44,000 feet (13.4 km) [Ed: hat tip and good morning to the Lady Anne.] From the AP: St. Vincent seeks water, funds as volcano keeps erupting
From Unherd: Ulster’s lost boys turn violent. Lockdown and Brexit have drawn a new generation into an old conflict. [Ed: For Brad. This article is the best coverage I've seen re: our N. Ireland discussion.]
From antiwar.com: EU Sanctions Iranian Officials Amid Vienna Talks. [Ed: important. The U.S. will be attending the Talks today in the wake of a meeting with Israel yesterday. At issue is Iran's nuclear capacity, whether Israel is responsible for the recent attack on Iran, and what will be Iran's response.]
From the Hollywood Reporter: Georgia Just Lost First Movie Over Voting Law. Will Smith pulls 'Emancipation' [Ed: the shooting is expected to end up in Louisiana, which has much the same voting laws as Georgia. It is pure virtue signalling.]
The Growing Danger of War. From the American Thinker: Guns Of April And Global War. How will Joe Biden respond to these three powder kegs? [Ed: any one of them could lead to widespread war.] From the BBC: China Sends 25 Warplanes Into Taiwan's Aerial Space. Meanwhile, Taiwan launches amphibious transport ship. From the American Conservative: Facing the Facts of War with Russia. The Biden administration appears willing to get us into a fight we’re not ready for. From antiwar.com: Western Media Eager to See Ukraine Use US-Supplied Weapons Against Russia
From Cracked: 4 Bonkers Secret Military Operations (That Failed Horribly)
From Asia Times: Did Delhi just yield the Indian Ocean to the US? "Last week's US Navy freedom of navigation operation showed it regards India’s EEZ as part of a 'global commons' where US will act as it deems fit ."
From the Independent: Brexit: Boris Johnson’s EU trade deal branded worst UK negotiation in at least 40 years
All Things Covid-1984. From the Daily Mail: Pentagon scientists reveal a microchip that senses COVID-19 in your body BEFORE you show symptoms and a filter that extracts the virus from blood. [Ed: I don't know whether my medical or political reservations rank #1 or #2 in rejecting this possibility.] From Phys.org: Scientists discover three liquid phases in aerosol particles. From Fast Company: The FDA recommends pause of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine over blood clot fears. So far there have been just six reported cases of “a rare and severe type of blood clot” out of almost 7 million who took the J&J vaccine.
From Cracked: 7 Forgotten McDonald's Menu Items (That Died For A Reason). [Ed: funny. And some are a trip down memory lane.]
The Chip Shortage. From Politico: Why the president can’t quickly solve the computer chip shortage. A White House summit on the semiconductor shortage lays bare the idled factories, lack of infrastructure and geopolitical complications that Biden must navigate to address the issue. From Zero Hedge: China's Huawei Blames US For Global Chip Shortage.
From the Washington Post via MSN: Minnesota killing adds to the anger, and the stakes, as Chauvin trial nears its end. [Ed: final arguments are expected next week. Then it is up to the jury.]
The Media. From Mint Press: How Bellingcat Launders National Security State Talking Points Into The Press. Revealing the "spook to Bellingcat to corporate media propaganda pipeline..." [Ed: surprise, surprise. It is the opposite of what it claimed to be.]
From the Sun: Website reveals if Google is SPYING on you with new hi-tech ‘ad tracker’. [Ed: the site is Am I FLoCed.]
From the Babylon Bee: 10 Easy Ways To END RACISM FOREVER AND Experts Are Super Smart And 100% Reliable, Experts Confirm
High Finance. From Zero Hedge: SEC Drops Accounting Bomb, Blows Up SPAC Boom. ...the communications mean that filings for new SPACs may not go forward until the warrants issue is addressed... [Ed: it is difficult to judge how significant this is/will be, but it is definitely a crack in the stock market.] From Kitco: Is the Fed hiding something? Why weekly money supply data just got discontinued. [Ed: hat tip to Brad who comments, This is disturbing.]
From Politico: Yang tweets about street vendors — and ignites fury on the left. [Ed: Yang is the forerunner in the NYC Dem. primary for mayor, and the far left are going after him.]
From Axios: “You’re not a one-person show": Pelosi unloads on "The Squad" in new biography. [Ed: out on April 20. Prepare for fireworks within the Dems. Actually, this is a strange move for her to make. A bid for legacy and having the final word?]
No Justice for the Little Guy or Gal. From the Tablet: American Exodus. Don’t wait for the oligarchy to let you in. Just walk away. [Ed: a must read.] From the Burning Platform Blog: From American Dream To American Nightmare. "It's called the American Dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it..."
From Sunny Skyz: The Obituary Of Matt Groening's Mother Explains The Origins Of The Simpsons
From CNBC: CEO of a top bitcoin exchange warns a crackdown on cryptocurrencies may be coming. [Ed: certainly, an attempt to do so will come.] From Zero Hedge: Coinbase Sets Reference Price At $250, Well Below Last Private Market Trade.
From Sovereign Man Blueprint: Big Government Rides To The Rescue Of Labor Unions. The US House of Representatives has passed a bill called the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. If the Senate passes the bill and the President signs it, this would usher in a union labor coup...
From Science News: Frog skin cells turned themselves into living machines. Newly created ‘xenobots’ swim and move particles around in their environment. [Ed: a fascinating development and read.]
The Border. From the Post Millennial: WATCH: White House press sec explains how Central American countries are 'helping' Biden admin with border crisis. "... new agreements struck between the US government and the governments of Mexico and Guatemala to get them to "surge" police and military presence to stem the tide of migrants." [Ed: and this differs from Trump?] From the Epoch Times: Top Republican Posts Video Of 'Child Abuse' At Texas Border Patrol Facility. "This is out of control..." [Ed: Steve Scalese.] From the Post Millennial: Biden administration funding request reveals multi-billion dollar migrant resettlement plan. From HuffPo: Elizabeth Warren Wants To Know Why Joe Biden Hasn’t Lifted The Refugee Cap Yet. Biden is on pace to accept fewer refugees than any modern president — including Donald Trump — according to a new report.
From CBS News: Protests as Japan says it will dump radioactive water from crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific. [Ed: I don't think this is a danger to the world in general, but it might damage their own shore and nearby areas. Depending on the concentration, of course.]
From antiwar: Cold War Fever in Brussels. [Ed: a must read.] AND Putin and Xi Have Red Lines, Too. [Ed: another must read.]
From Electroverse: La Soufrière Update: Volcanic Ash Reaches 44,000 feet (13.4 km) [Ed: hat tip and good morning to the Lady Anne.] From the AP: St. Vincent seeks water, funds as volcano keeps erupting
From Unherd: Ulster’s lost boys turn violent. Lockdown and Brexit have drawn a new generation into an old conflict. [Ed: For Brad. This article is the best coverage I've seen re: our N. Ireland discussion.]
From antiwar.com: EU Sanctions Iranian Officials Amid Vienna Talks. [Ed: important. The U.S. will be attending the Talks today in the wake of a meeting with Israel yesterday. At issue is Iran's nuclear capacity, whether Israel is responsible for the recent attack on Iran, and what will be Iran's response.]
From the Hollywood Reporter: Georgia Just Lost First Movie Over Voting Law. Will Smith pulls 'Emancipation' [Ed: the shooting is expected to end up in Louisiana, which has much the same voting laws as Georgia. It is pure virtue signalling.]
The Growing Danger of War. From the American Thinker: Guns Of April And Global War. How will Joe Biden respond to these three powder kegs? [Ed: any one of them could lead to widespread war.] From the BBC: China Sends 25 Warplanes Into Taiwan's Aerial Space. Meanwhile, Taiwan launches amphibious transport ship. From the American Conservative: Facing the Facts of War with Russia. The Biden administration appears willing to get us into a fight we’re not ready for. From antiwar.com: Western Media Eager to See Ukraine Use US-Supplied Weapons Against Russia
From Cracked: 4 Bonkers Secret Military Operations (That Failed Horribly)
From Asia Times: Did Delhi just yield the Indian Ocean to the US? "Last week's US Navy freedom of navigation operation showed it regards India’s EEZ as part of a 'global commons' where US will act as it deems fit ."
From the Independent: Brexit: Boris Johnson’s EU trade deal branded worst UK negotiation in at least 40 years
All Things Covid-1984. From the Daily Mail: Pentagon scientists reveal a microchip that senses COVID-19 in your body BEFORE you show symptoms and a filter that extracts the virus from blood. [Ed: I don't know whether my medical or political reservations rank #1 or #2 in rejecting this possibility.] From Phys.org: Scientists discover three liquid phases in aerosol particles. From Fast Company: The FDA recommends pause of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine over blood clot fears. So far there have been just six reported cases of “a rare and severe type of blood clot” out of almost 7 million who took the J&J vaccine.
From Cracked: 7 Forgotten McDonald's Menu Items (That Died For A Reason). [Ed: funny. And some are a trip down memory lane.]
The Chip Shortage. From Politico: Why the president can’t quickly solve the computer chip shortage. A White House summit on the semiconductor shortage lays bare the idled factories, lack of infrastructure and geopolitical complications that Biden must navigate to address the issue. From Zero Hedge: China's Huawei Blames US For Global Chip Shortage.
From the Washington Post via MSN: Minnesota killing adds to the anger, and the stakes, as Chauvin trial nears its end. [Ed: final arguments are expected next week. Then it is up to the jury.]
The Media. From Mint Press: How Bellingcat Launders National Security State Talking Points Into The Press. Revealing the "spook to Bellingcat to corporate media propaganda pipeline..." [Ed: surprise, surprise. It is the opposite of what it claimed to be.]
From the Sun: Website reveals if Google is SPYING on you with new hi-tech ‘ad tracker’. [Ed: the site is Am I FLoCed.]
From the Babylon Bee: 10 Easy Ways To END RACISM FOREVER AND Experts Are Super Smart And 100% Reliable, Experts Confirm
High Finance. From Zero Hedge: SEC Drops Accounting Bomb, Blows Up SPAC Boom. ...the communications mean that filings for new SPACs may not go forward until the warrants issue is addressed... [Ed: it is difficult to judge how significant this is/will be, but it is definitely a crack in the stock market.] From Kitco: Is the Fed hiding something? Why weekly money supply data just got discontinued. [Ed: hat tip to Brad who comments, This is disturbing.]
From Politico: Yang tweets about street vendors — and ignites fury on the left. [Ed: Yang is the forerunner in the NYC Dem. primary for mayor, and the far left are going after him.]
From Axios: “You’re not a one-person show": Pelosi unloads on "The Squad" in new biography. [Ed: out on April 20. Prepare for fireworks within the Dems. Actually, this is a strange move for her to make. A bid for legacy and having the final word?]
No Justice for the Little Guy or Gal. From the Tablet: American Exodus. Don’t wait for the oligarchy to let you in. Just walk away. [Ed: a must read.] From the Burning Platform Blog: From American Dream To American Nightmare. "It's called the American Dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it..."
From Sunny Skyz: The Obituary Of Matt Groening's Mother Explains The Origins Of The Simpsons
From CNBC: CEO of a top bitcoin exchange warns a crackdown on cryptocurrencies may be coming. [Ed: certainly, an attempt to do so will come.] From Zero Hedge: Coinbase Sets Reference Price At $250, Well Below Last Private Market Trade.
From Sovereign Man Blueprint: Big Government Rides To The Rescue Of Labor Unions. The US House of Representatives has passed a bill called the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act. If the Senate passes the bill and the President signs it, this would usher in a union labor coup...
From Science News: Frog skin cells turned themselves into living machines. Newly created ‘xenobots’ swim and move particles around in their environment. [Ed: a fascinating development and read.]
The Border. From the Post Millennial: WATCH: White House press sec explains how Central American countries are 'helping' Biden admin with border crisis. "... new agreements struck between the US government and the governments of Mexico and Guatemala to get them to "surge" police and military presence to stem the tide of migrants." [Ed: and this differs from Trump?] From the Epoch Times: Top Republican Posts Video Of 'Child Abuse' At Texas Border Patrol Facility. "This is out of control..." [Ed: Steve Scalese.] From the Post Millennial: Biden administration funding request reveals multi-billion dollar migrant resettlement plan. From HuffPo: Elizabeth Warren Wants To Know Why Joe Biden Hasn’t Lifted The Refugee Cap Yet. Biden is on pace to accept fewer refugees than any modern president — including Donald Trump — according to a new report.
From CBS News: Protests as Japan says it will dump radioactive water from crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific. [Ed: I don't think this is a danger to the world in general, but it might damage their own shore and nearby areas. Depending on the concentration, of course.]
From antiwar: Cold War Fever in Brussels. [Ed: a must read.] AND Putin and Xi Have Red Lines, Too. [Ed: another must read.]
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